The Wounded Knee Massacre was a tragic event that occurred on December 29, 1890, near Wounded Knee Creek on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. It involved the United States 7th Cavalry Regiment and members of the Lakota tribe. Here are the key details:
Historical Context
- Native American Resistance: The late 19th century was marked by increasing tension between Native American tribes and the U.S. government. The Ghost Dance movement, a religious movement among various Native American tribes, was seen by government officials as a threat, leading to heightened military presence on reservations.
- Lead-up to the Massacre: The U.S. Army was actively involved in suppressing the Ghost Dance movement. On December 28, 1890, the 7th Cavalry Regiment, led by Colonel James Forsyth, intercepted a band of Minneconjou and Hunkpapa Lakota led by Spotted Elk (also known as Big Foot) who were heading towards Pine Ridge to seek protection from the U.S. forces.
The Incident
- Initial Peaceful Disarmament: The army intended to disarm the Lakota. During the disarmament process, tensions rose, particularly when a young man named Black Coyote refused to give up his rifle, claiming he had paid for it.
- Outbreak of Violence: A scuffle ensued, and a shot was fired, though it is unclear who fired first. This led to a barrage of gunfire from the soldiers, many of whom were equipped with Hotchkiss guns, which caused devastating casualties among the Lakota, who were mostly unarmed.
- Casualties: Estimates of the number of Native American deaths vary, but it is generally accepted that between 150 to 300 Lakota men, women, and children were killed. Additionally, around 25 soldiers died, mostly from friendly fire.
Aftermath
- Public Reaction: The massacre was initially reported with a mix of celebration and condemnation. Some newspapers hailed it as a victory, while others, including Native American advocates, condemned the violence.
- Medals of Honor: Controversially, 20 soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor for their actions during the massacre, a decision that has been criticized and remains a point of contention.
- Long-Term Impact: The massacre marked the end of major armed resistance by Native Americans against the encroachment of the United States government. It also led to a significant change in U.S. policy towards Native Americans, moving from military suppression to assimilation efforts.
- Memorialization: In 1990, the Wounded Knee Massacre Site was declared a National Historic Landmark, and efforts to honor the victims and educate about the event continue.
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